HMX Deep Navy vs. Gateron Luciola
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Luciola switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron Luciola stand out as two captivating options, each with its unique characteristics. The HMX Deep Navy switches are celebrated for their rich and sharp sound profile, thanks to their full nylon construction, promising a silky smooth experience with every keystroke. Ideal for those who prioritize a refined auditory feedback and a seamless typing experience, the Deep Navy switches cater to users seeking an immersion in sound and texture. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola switches are visually striking, glowing in the dark and enhancing any setup’s aesthetics. With a medium heft, they offer a smooth and bouncy typing feel complemented by a playful sound reminiscent of a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken." This makes them an excellent choice for individuals looking for a switch that combines both an engaging auditory experience and unique visual flair. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Gateron Luciola, a clear distinction emerges between the two. The Deep Navy features a top and bottom housing made from nylon, a classic material known for its softer and more sound-absorbent properties. This choice leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the nylon effectively dampens vibrations for a more muted and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housing. This INK blend is designed to create a higher-pitched sound that is sharp yet not overly aggressive, resulting in a clackier typing experience. Thus, while both switches aim to provide distinct sound profiles, the materials used profoundly affect the character of those outputs.
The impact of the housing materials on the typing experience is notable and nuanced. The HMX Deep Navy, with its nylon construction, offers a more subdued resonance, appealing to users who prefer a typing experience characterized by warmth and a gentler acoustic feedback. The sound produced from the Deep Navy’s nylon can be described as rich and thick, contributing to a comfortable ambiance during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron Luciola’s INK blend ensures that every keystroke elicits a pronounced and lively response, making it suitable for users who enjoy a more tactile and audibly engaging feedback. This key difference influences how each switch is perceived during use, with the Deep Navy favoring a calm typing environment and the Luciola catering to those who seek excitement and clarity in their auditory feedback.
In situations where a user might desire similar results from both switches, focusing on their respective sound profiles and tactile feedback could yield comparable satisfaction. While the Deep Navy provides a more rounded sound, those utilizing the Luciola's INK blend may appreciate its clarity, as long as they favor the higher pitch characteristic. Additionally, if a user seeks to optimize acoustics, they can pair either switch with sound-dampening materials or keyboards that absorb sound vibrations effectively. By carefully considering key press techniques and typing surfaces, one could bridge the acoustic experiences offered by both switch types, allowing for personalized yet fulfilling typing experiences regardless of the switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch, distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces become apparent. The Deep Navy switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more comfortable typing experience, especially over extended periods of use. In contrast, the Luciola switch features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who appreciate a more substantial feel in their keystrokes. This difference means that users of the Deep Navy switch may find it easier to type for longer sessions without fatigue, while Luciola users might enjoy the tactile feedback associated with a firmer keypress. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a light touch or a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning they provide an identical experience in terms of keypress depth. This equal travel distance ensures that users will experience the same level of actuation and tactile feedback when using either switch. As a result, those who prefer one over the other may need to consider factors such as feel, sound, or build quality rather than the travel distance, since both options will deliver similar results in that regard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch features a rich and sharp sound profile that resonates with a satisfying tonal quality, primarily due to its full nylon construction. This lends a certain warmth to the typist's experience. In contrast, the Gateron Luciola produces a more varied array of sounds, characterized by its clacky, chirpy, and high-pitched acoustic signature. The sound can be best likened to a can of spray paint being shaken, providing a unique auditory experience that stands in contrast to the more subdued richness of the Deep Navy switches. Consequently, the auditory experience between the two switches varies significantly, with the Deep Navy offering a more refined sound and the Luciola delivering a louder, more playful ambiance.
When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch is noted for delivering smooth and silky keystrokes, allowing for an effortless typing experience that many users find desirable. The Gateron Luciola, however, provides a more dynamic typing sensation, categorized as snappy, buttery, and polished. The additional responsiveness and smoothness in the Luciola contribute to a sense of liveliness while typing, contrasting with the Deep Navy's emphasis on a consistent and fluid keystroke. As a result, while both switches aim for a superior typing experience, the Deep Navy gives a more linear and controlled feel, whereas the Luciola encourages a more interactive and energetic feel.
In summary, both the HMX Deep Navy and Gateron Luciola linear switches offer distinctive auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy excels in delivering a rich and refined sound alongside smooth keystrokes for a consistent typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Luciola's clacky, varied sound profile and responsive, bouncy feel create a unique and engaging typing experience. Ultimately, your choice may come down to whether you favor the Deep Navy's warmth and fluidity or the Luciola's liveliness and character, knowing that the overall typing feel and sound may also be influenced by your keyboard's design and keycap material.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Gateron Luciola linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you’re looking for a lighter typing experience that combines silky smoothness with a rich and sharp sound profile, the Deep Navy is your best option, particularly for extended typing sessions or gaming where quick responsiveness is key. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium heft that offers a snappy and bouncy feel, along with the added flair of glowing in the dark, the Gateron Luciola will enhance both your typing experience and aesthetic. Additionally, consider the sound characteristics: the Deep Navy presents a more refined auditory feedback, while the Luciola’s clacky, chirpy, and high-pitched tones provide a lively and engaging keystroke sound. Ultimately, choose the switch that resonates with how you want to interact with your keyboard, whether it's for gaming, typing, or simply adding a unique visual element to your setup.
Mentioned in this article
